Endelave Church

Photo: Lasse Torp

A couple sitting on the beach with Endelave Church in the background

Photo: Lasse Torp

The church interior of Endelave Church

Photo: Lasse Torp

Endelave Church seen from outside

Island church amidst the vacation island

During the medieval period, the island of Endelave belonged to the Danish king. However, it was often mortgaged to several prominent estates around Horsens Fjord, including Stensballegaard, Åkjær, and Boller. It was under Niels Munk of Bygholm that Endelave Church was constructed around the mid-15th century.

It is noteworthy that the church bears a resemblance to other island churches in the area, such as Hjarnø and Alrø churches. These churches share the characteristic of being smaller than mainland churches and also several hundred years younger. This is believed to be due to pirate raids along the Danish coasts in the 12th and 13th centuries. However, in the early 1400s, the Danish crown made a concerted effort to combat this, explaining why coastal churches often date from this period.

Endelave has never had an overwhelmingly large population, but the island's inhabitants were faithful churchgoers in days gone by. If one failed to attend service, they could expect to be questioned about the reason afterward. Hence, it was necessary to expand the church as the island's population grew. This led to expansions of the church nave at the expense of the church choir.

Endelave Church is still active and serves as its own parish.

 

About the church

Endelave Church was built in Gothic style, characteristic of the 15th century. The most significant renovation of the church occurred in 1930, when the well-known local architect from Horsens, Viggo Norn, built a new tower. Before this, the church bell had stood on the ground in a bell frame. Endelave Church doesn't boast many riches or treasures of church art but exudes its own charm. Noteworthy items include the old oak door from the porch into the nave, the altarpiece with two side panel paintings from the 17th century, and the pulpit from the 16th century. There are two ship models hanging in the church as a testament to the island's maritime character: a full-rigged ship from the 19th century and the warship 'Dannebrog' from the 1950s.

 

Visiting the church

Endelave Church is open during daylight hours. You are welcome to step inside, but please respect the church's religious function. The church may be in use for services and ceremonial events.

If churches had eyes, Endelave Church probably wouldn't complain about the view. It sits right by the beach on the north side of the island, a few hundred meters west of the harbor. It is conveniently situated near the island's eateries, shops, attractions, and accommodations.

 

Explore Endelave

Lovely Endelave is one of Denmark's most delightful vacation islands. The ferry crossing from the east coast takes an hour, allowing visits for both day trips and longer stays. The island's eateries, shops, and accommodation options are located in the village near the harbor, while the wild nature awaits further out. You can stroll around the island on the popular hiking trail 'Kaninoen,' rent a bike, or take your car on the ferry.

On this page, you can find inspiration for your trip to Endelave.

Hotels nearby of Endelave Church

  • Montra Odder Parkhotel

    25.34 km

    Montra Odder Parkhotel offers a perfect combination of tranquil and luxurious surroundings, ideal for both relaxation and business meetings. This 4-star hotel and conference center is centrally located in the beautiful area of Odder, just a short distance from Aarhus, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests.

    Read more : Montra Odder Parkhotel
  • Hotel Vejlefjord

    32.93 km

    Due to the beautiful location near the fjord and in the beech forest, Hotel Vejlefjord is often referred to as “The castle in the forest ". The hotel spa and wellness facilities and the thermal baths are unique and compares favorably with the best in Northern Europe. Enjoy the 20 km forest tracks.

    Read more : Hotel Vejlefjord
  • Hotel Skanderborghus

    36.55 km

    Skanderborghus, which is situated in the deer park Dyrehaven at the shore of the lake, is indeed a gem near lake and wood. The hotel is situated close to the cosy centre of Skanderborg with fine shopping possibilities, and in the surroundings there are fine possibilities of sailing, golfing and playing tennis.
    Read more : Hotel Skanderborghus
  • Munkebo Kro

    38.15 km

    Experience the cozy atmosphere at Munkebo Kro, located right by the water with a view over Kertinge Nor. Here, you can enjoy well-prepared dishes and explore the harbor town of Kerteminde and the capital of Funen, Odense.

    Read more : Munkebo Kro
  • Fjelsted Skov Hotel & Konference

    39.15 km

    Welcome to Fjelsted Skov Hotel and Conference - a unique refuge in the midst of nature. We offer an exclusive experience where tranquility and charm blend with modern comfort surrounded by the breathtaking Fjelsted Skov. The ideal place for both business travelers and holiday guests.

    Read more : Fjelsted Skov Hotel & Konference
  • Hotel Fredericia - SDH Partner Hotel

    39.56 km

    Experience culinary magic at the restaurant Ryes, and combine your stay with the beautiful nature together with a lot of cultural experiences and activities when you stay at Hotel Fredericia.
    Read more : Hotel Fredericia - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Tornøes Hotel

    42.3 km

    Kerteminde, on the island of Funen, is the quintessence of rural idyll, featuring fishermen’s cottages and fine merchants’ farms. In the heart of Kerteminde, you will find Tornøes Hotel. The hotel is full of atmosphere, charm and good cheer, with lovely rooms, excellent food and a magnificent view.
    Read more : Tornøes Hotel
  • Hotel Knudsens Gaard

    42.73 km

    Hotel Knudsens Gaard in Odense emphasizes personal service, high quality and a peaceful atmosphere. The uncontested attention is on the guests, who must be able to enjoy a relaxed stay in green surroundings. The hotel rooms have a homely feel and the restaurant delivers fantastic culinary experiences.

    Read more : Hotel Knudsens Gaard
  • Hotel Oasia Aarhus

    43.75 km

    City Hotel Oasia is the only designer hotel in Aarhus. The decor emphasises elegant and discreet luxury, clean lines and Nordic design. Designer furniture and hard-wooden flooring highlight the style. This wonderful oasis is situated close to Aarhus Central Station, ARoS and The Old Town. Only breakfast restaurant.
    Read more : Hotel Oasia Aarhus
  • Hotel Hedegaarden

    43.93 km

    Hotel Hedegaarden is a family-run hotel which offers everything from the traditional Danish cuisine to new and different taste experiences. They emphasize good food made of first-rate ingredients, an unpretentious atmosphere and that everything functions as is should. The hotel is situated right at motorway exit no. 60
    Read more : Hotel Hedegaarden